Dubai Metro: How can companies name metro stations, cost – everything you need to know

The initiative allows interested companies and organisations to purchase the naming rights to select stations on the Red and Green lines for a set period in exchange for a fee.

Not all 49 stations are part of this initiative.

Dubai Metro generates revenue through station naming rights programme

In its first decade of activity, the programme brought in over AED2 billion (approximately $545 million), through these naming rights deals, according to a report by Public-Private Partnership Legal Resource Centre (PPPLRC).

The latest such agreement saw Al Safa station become known as ONPASSIVE Metro Station for the following 10 years after sponsorship from the tech firm in 2023.

Dubai RTA has found the scheme to be a success at producing revenue streams without placing undue financial burdens on residents or taxpayers. Interested parties can apply through the authority’s website, where criteria is disclosed.

The money generated goes towards maintaining and improving infrastructure across the emirate’s expanding metro network.

This supports the ongoing growth and development seen in the transportation sector of the cosmopolitan trade hub.

Criteria for Dubai Metro naming rights

The RTA has a set criteria used to evaluate companies interested in partnership deals, which grants Dubai Metro station naming rights to the company.

Price will be the primary consideration, accounting for 65 percent of the scoring, according to the official RTA website.

Other economic factors include the proposed duration of any agreement at 15 percent and payment installments at 20 percent. These financial elements will together make up the largest portion of how offers are assessed.

Non-economic criteria focus on proposed activations of the partnership and business generation proposals.

Submissions will be judged on ideas for promoting Dubai Metro to both residents and visitors.

Proximity such as having headquarters near stations or lines can add value to applications.

Additional desirable traits include a commitment to Dubai and corporate social responsibility policies.

While not essential, presence in the UAE market and financial stability form part of the general evaluation. Certain industries like tobacco and gambling will not be considered.

Moreover, respect for local values and culture is important. Overall the metro aims to start discussions with companies whose proposals make the most sense for cooperation. The criteria aim to select partners aligned with Dubai’s goals of development and success.

Documents required for Dubai Metro naming rights

According to the RTA, the following are the documents required for companies that want naming rights to Dubai Metro stations:

• Profile of the company
• Address in the UAE
• Summary of financial statements for the last 2 fiscal years:
  • Revenues
  • Number of employees
• Logo/name of the brand
• Trading license or articles of association or any legal documents evidencing the authority of the signing body to do so
• Official authorisation signature document of the person who is signing the Bid Form.